Foolproof plan for Ashura security devised: Shehryar Afridi

Minister says people and institutions need to work together

ISLAMABAD: Minister of State for Interior Shehryar Khan Afridi on Wednesday said that on the directives of Prime Minister Imran Khan, a complete security plan has been formulated by the ministry to ensure safety of processions and general public during Muharram.

Afridi said that the interior ministry would ensure complete support of the federal government, as well as, all state institutions to maintain law and order.

“Ashura is an occasion to pay respect to the martyrs of Karbala, observed all over the world with solidarity,” the ministry’s statement reads. He said that it is vital to remember the sacrifices made to uphold the name of the religion that serves as an example for humanity.

Afridi underscored PM Imran’s desire that the state institutions guarantee the safety and security of the country’s citizens. “We must also remember that it is also the responsibility of all citizens of Pakistan to support the security forces in ensuring successful execution of their duties,” he added.

Afridi said that all agencies responsible for assuring national security need support from the citizens to respect all communities, religions, castes, creed and colour. Citizens and institutions need to work together as one force to defeat all anti-state elements with nefarious designs against the nation.